Apprenticeships are once again in the spotlight as the annual National Apprenticeship Week, from March 4 to 8, draws closer.

A great opportunity to gain work experience and work towards national standards, apprenticeships are growing in popularity with young people, who relish the chance to ‘earn as they learn’.

On Thursday, March 7, Vision West Nottinghamshire College, in Mansfield, will be holding an apprenticeship open evening from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at its Derby Road campus, NG18 5BH.

The college are encouraging anyone interested in finding out more about apprenticeships to come along and meet the apprenticeship team, and to take the valuable opportunity to ask any questions they may have.

From apprentice to graduate to employee

Since, he has gone on to earn a degree in business management and marketing, and now works as a recruitment consultant in Nottingham.

Nathan Adams completed a business admin apprenticeship before going on to earn a degree - he now works as a recruitment consultant in Nottingham

Nathan said: “I feel I gained so much from my apprenticeship. I developed transferable skills that I could take into the workplace, and there was a good level of support. Apprenticeships can give you that knowledge base that you need to move forward in your career.

“I’d recommend apprenticeships to young people considering their next steps. If there’s a company you want to do an apprenticeship for – why not approach them? There are so many apprenticeship options out there, across all different careers, so go out and get it.”

More than one option

While apprenticeship opportunities continue to grow in number and popularity, the college also recommends that young people who are thinking apprenticeships consider a viable ‘plan B’, so they aren’t left without a study option come September.

The college offers a full-time A Level and BTEC courses which can provide another valuable route into the workplace or Higher Education.

Applications for courses starting in September are now being accepted online via the college’s website here.

Additionally, apprenticeships aren’t just for those actively looking for a new job, but also employers themselves.

The introduction of the apprenticeship levy in 2017 means businesses now have access to specific funding for apprenticeships in order to provide their current workforce with additional skills, so it’s a great time for employers to discuss how the college can help with their internal training plans, including how best to maximise the levy.

For current apprenticeship vacancies with Vision Apprentices or to speak to the team about the opportunities available, visit their website or call 0800 121 8317.